2 Best Sights in Crete, Greece

The hill where the Venetians first settled rises above the east end of the harbor and it became the quarter of the local nobility. Their palaces, now partially in ruin from neglect and World War II bombings, still line the ridge above the harbor. Kastelli had been occupied much earlier; the Minoan city of Cydonia was sited here.

The Venetians built an imposing fortress on this small island in the center of the Gulf of Mirabello in the 16th century. It withstood Turkish invasion for more than 45 years after the mainland had fallen. Nevertheless, it is more recent history that gives this isle its eerie infamy; from the beginning of the last century it became a leper colony, imprisoning the unfortunate in primitive conditions until 1957. It is a poignant and evocative place with a sense of melancholy that remains to this day. The story is brought to life in the international best-selling novel The Island by Victoria Hislop. Boat excursions run from Ayios Nikolaos and Elounda. Most include a swim on a deserted island. There is also a shorter trip from Plaka, directly opposite Spinalonga. Expect to pay €10 from Elounda, €20 from Ayios Nikolaos, and €8 from Plaka.